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Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba will not feature in Wednesday night's MLS All-Star Game in Austin, Texas, despite being named in the roster. Their absence has triggered the possibility of a one-match suspension under league rules.
The Inter Miami pair had been expected to represent Major League Soccer in the high-profile exhibition against a Liga MX All-Star squad. Alba was initially listed for Tuesday’s All-Star Skills Challenge but was withdrawn without explanation. MLS has not issued any public statement regarding either player’s absence from the week’s festivities.
The All-Star Game, a tradition since the league's founding in 1996, is one of MLS’s marquee events. While its format has evolved over the years, from conference showdowns to matches against global clubs, the current setup pits top MLS talent against stars from Mexico’s Liga MX. This year marks the fourth meeting in that format, with Liga MX having won last year’s clash 4-1.
Participation in the event is considered mandatory unless a player has a valid medical exemption. According to MLS policy, those who decline to take part without approval may face a one-game suspension. The league is now expected to speak with Inter Miami before determining whether disciplinary action will be applied to Messi and Alba.
The timing of the event adds pressure to already packed schedules. Inter Miami has played five matches in July following their exit from the FIFA Club World Cup, and their next match is set for Saturday against FC Cincinnati, the Eastern Conference leaders. Miami then faces Liga MX’s Atlas in the Leagues Cup the following Wednesday.
Messi and Alba’s withdrawal may reflect concerns over fatigue and injuries. Messi sustained an ankle injury in the Copa América final, and both he and Alba have dealt with recent fitness issues. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano had voiced caution earlier, saying:
“The players are called up. I’d prefer they rest, but it’s not my decision.”
“I know how important the All-Star Game is, and as far as I know, there’s no decision from the club, everything continues as normal.”
Messi and Alba were voted into the All-Star team through fan and media ballots, reflecting their continued popularity in the league. Alba had participated in last year’s All-Star event in Columbus, Ohio.
While their absence is not without precedent, Zlatan Ibrahimović missed the 2018 game and was suspended, later calling the decision “ridiculous”, the final decision for Messi and Alba will hinge on discussions between the league and their club.
Featured Image Credit: Instagram / @intermiamicf
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